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◳ Prague (jpg) → (originál)

Prague is a favourite tourist destination and offers a wide variety of interesting places to visit and possibilities how to spend free time. Here is a summary of starting tips for any newcomer.

Prague in the Middle Ages:

Prague became an important centre during the rule of dukes of house Přemysl. Both a trading settlement in today’s Malá Strana and the rotunda of St. Wenceslaus in the Prague Castle can be dated back to the 10^th century. Foundation of the castle Vyšehrad occurred in the latter half of the same century. Prague became a a fortified city in the 13^th century in the High Middle Ages.

Prague was further expanded and in general developed during the rule of Charles IV, when it was the capital of the Holy Roman Empire.

The historical centre of Prague, full of the atmosphere of medieval streets that reminisce the old trade routes, opulent royal processions, knightly tournaments, and Hussite upheaval, is listed in as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The main landmarks of Czech statehood are the Prague Castle and Vyšehrad.

The premises of the Prague Castle consist of numerous historical palaces, churches, and the cathedral of St. Vitus, that bear traces of the rule of the Czech kings and princes throughout the centuries. If we want to get and idea of the authentic atmosphere of the centuries past, we can go to Zlatá ulička or to Nový svět. There are also numerous exhibitions, galleries, and various cultural events in the premises of the Prague Castle. Also worth mentioning are the baroque terrace gardens beneath the Prague Castle, which were part of the noble palaces built below the castle in Malá Strana.

Another landmark of Prague, Vyšehrad – a hillfort above the river Vltava – is part of the Czech mythology from its earliest times.

Many eminent Czech figures are buried in the Vyšehrad Cemetery, which also houses the oldest rotunda in Prague, the rotunda of St. Martin.

Charles Bridge, the oldest bridge in Prague dating back to the 14^th century, connects both banks of the river Vltava. It is named after its founder, Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Statues of saints flanking both sides of the bridge are from the baroque period. The most popular is the statue of St. Jan Nepomucký, who – according to legend – was thrown off this very bridge.

Prague’s Old Town is the true heart of Prague, settled since the 11^th century, is along with the Prague Castle the oldest part of the city. At its centre is the Old Town square. Part of the Old Town is still based on the original medieval ground plan, whose narrow passages are surrounded by houses with oftentimes an interesting, intriguing, and mysterious history. The Old Town Square is often cited as the most beautiful town square in Europe. Its main attraction is Orloj, a medieval mechanical clock with moving figures of apostles. The Old Town Square is interesting for more reasons that just that however and has an unmistakable and lengthy history. It was witness to several important historical events and even today is the centre of affairs in Prague. The Old Town Hall was founded as the centre of administration for the Old Town of Prague.

Karolinum, the site of the Charles University – the oldest Czech university dating back to the 14^th century – is not far from the Old Town Square.

Josefov (also known as the Jewish quarter) is the most preserved complex of Jewish historic sights in Central Europe.

Jewish merchants and moneylenders made their home in Prague since the 10^th century. The Jewish population governed itself from the outset, having their own schools and synagogues. The Old New Synagogue from the last quarter of the 13^th century was the main synagogue of the Jewish community in Prague. Other synagogues in Prague include Pinkas Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, and the Spanish Synagogue. The Old Jewish Cemetery is called Beth-chaim, “House of Life”, and is a memorial of global import.

What is interesting amongst modern architecture:

The Municipal House is an excellent example of Prague Secession. It was built by the Prague community in the years 1905-1912. It primarily serves representative purposes and as a place for cultural events, such as concerts or exhibitions.

The National Museum was founded during the time of the Czech National Revival. There you can find regular collections as well as temporary thematic expositions. The Neo-Renaissance building of the National Museum forms the most prominent feature of the Wenceslaus Square.

The tallest structure in Prague is the Žižkov Television Tower, which offers wondrous views of the city of Prague.

Further places of interest:

Zoo in Troja

Botanical garden in Troja

For fans of nature:

Petřín and its lookout tower

Šárka – close to UCT Prague

Prokopské údolí – natural reserve

Prague’s parks Stromovka, Riegerovy sady, Grébovka, Kampa

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If you fancy something more than pub culture, Prague offers plenty of possibilities. We would suggest only a few here:

Many bigger theatres offer plays with English subtitles – Dejvické divadlo, Švandovo divadlo or even Národní divadlo (which is worth the visit just for its interior).

Tip 1: Try the Cimrman English Theatre, which will give you a great insight into Czech humour as it presents comedies about the legendary, albeit non-existing Czech creative genius, Jára Cimrman.

Are you thinking about going to the cinema? Avoid multiplexes and visit smaller local venues like Lucerna, Bio Oko, Kino Přítomnost, Edison Film Hub, or Kino Pilotů. They screen Hollywood movies, but also smaller foreign films or documentaries. For example, Kino Ponrepo has made a name for screening old-school gems! Furthermore, these venues are worth visiting for their cosy vibe and interior design.

Maybe you can try to find multifunctional space, where you can study and work also?

Scout Institute (Skautský institut). The Scout Institute hosts a wide range of events such as exhibitions, talks, debates, workshops, cinema, dancing, or sports events. In the tradition and experience of the scout movement, it creates a space for meeting and personal development of people of all generations, scouts and non-scouts. The building also features a café.

◳ Scout_Institut (edited 13.9.23 12:43:57) (png) → (originál)

Do you try to find a cultural oasis, free of visual smog and only a few minutes from the centre of Prague?

Former barracks turned into a large lively hip courtyard make up Kasárna Karlín. There’s an open-air cinema, fireplaces, an indoor cinema in a former pool, a winter ice skating rink, bars, a playground, and nice weird art. Perfect to chill out

◳ exteriery-namesti-kasarne-karlin (jpg) → (originál)

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Mobile service

There are three main mobile network providers in the Czech Republic – Vodafone, T-Mobile, and Telefónica O2. All are comparable in terms of services and prices offered. But every company has its niche! Be sure to compare offers before you buy.

The price of a prepaid SIM card differs according to the services and usually costs around 350–700 CZK/month with calls, SMS, and mobile data included.

Internet

There are many local providers which offer a wide range of options in terms of speed etc. It is a good idea to ask about the options also while arranging a mobile service.

Restaurants, some shops, or shopping centres offer free Wi-Fi. You can catch it even in selected trams or at stops. There is also a free Wi-Fi service on the campus – eduroam (login instructions are available on the university website). However, we recommend you get mobile service as soon as possible.

Also on the territory of UCT and in dormitories Sázava and Volha you can access WI-FI - vscht (for free)

Tip 1: Ask the International Department of UCT Prague for a free sim card (Czech number + 3 GB of data for starters always helps).

Tip 2: Around 25 % of all Czech internet searches are made via Seznam.cz. Check this website out and see where Czechs get their information day in day out.

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We speak Czech in the Czech Republic. As part of the Slavic language group, we share plenty of linguistic and cultural characteristics with Slovakia and some with Poland, Croatia, Serbia, and many more. Although those languages may sound similar, be aware that we generally don’t understand each other too much. Except for Slovaks – we do understand our brothers!

While 82 % of people between 18 and 24 speak a foreign language, this is not always the case with older generations. Thus, we highly recommend you learn some basic Czech words and phrases – it will please every Czech person you encounter and make your stay much easier!

Tip 1: Download the Duolingo app and offline Czech package on Google translate or Deepl translate.

Tip 2: Check out “Czech for beginners” courses taught at UCT Prague.

Tip 3: When dealing with local authorities (Foreign Police, Ministry of Interior, etc.), bring a Czech acquaintance with you if possible (don’t hesitate to ask for assistance at ESN UCT Prague or Tutors). It is not uncommon that the office workers will talk to you exclusively in Czech.

Basic Czech vocabulary
Hello	Ahoj (informal)
Hello	Dobrý den (formal)
Thank you	Děkuji
No, thanks	Ne, děkuji
Sorry	Promiň (informal)
Sorry	Promiňte (formal)
Yes	Ano
No	Ne
I don’t understand.	Nerozumím.
I don’t know.	Nevím.
I don’t speak Czech.	Nemluvím česky.
Excuse me (if you want to bypass a person)	S dovolením!
Do you speak English?	Mluvíte anglicky?
Where is the bathroom?	Kde je WC?
I will have...	Dám si…
Beer	Pivo

Signs
Warning	Upozornění/varování
Exit	Východ
Caution	Pozor
No entry	Zákaz vstupu
Break	Přestávka
Open	Otevřeno
Close	Zavřeno

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Czechs are an outgoing nation – in the true meaning of this word: going outside. As much as we enjoy a cold glass of beer in the pub (more on that below), we love to spend time together in nature and to walk on perfectly marked tourist trails in the countryside or mountains. Also, don’t be surprised if a Czech person asks you to go on a bike trip (biking is Czech’s favourite sport!), kayaking, or even mushrooming. We do that to relax as well!

Czechs growingly care about sustainability as we want to preserve our nature for the above-mentioned reasons. Please try to sort your waste. You will find special bins for paper, plastic, glass, and general trash at a maximum distance of 50m from each household.

◳ odpad (jpg) → (originál)

Here are a few basics of waste sorting:

plastic belongs to yellow containers
paper to blue ones
white glass to white
colored glass to green.

Many families also have a cottage (chata, chalupa) outside of the capital where they go to disconnect from the city rush almost every weekend. This phenomenon goes back almost 100 years but was the most popular in the 1960s when many people lived in small flats in big housing estates and wanted to get closer to nature and have some privacy. Don’t turn down the offer for a couple of days if you are invited as you might explore an unknown part of the Czech Republic and have a little trip back in history – some of the cottages have kept their interiors from previous decades.

Routes and tickets

Tip 1: For trip inspiration, try Mapy.cz, which not only shows you all the marked trails you can imagine, but it can also help you with planning a nice round trip in a selected area. Even if you plan to hike around Europe, Mapy.cz is superior to Google Maps almost anywhere!

What about traveling to another city for the weekend? Which carrier should I choose? We all know about “FlixBus: Bus travel through Europe”, but what about another one.

For example, RegioJet - private railway/ intercity buses. Maybe they don't have as many connections as the same FlixBus, but there is a great option - a discount for students when choosing a tariff - Student ISIC up to 26 years. Hot coffee or tea can be found on buses and you can also return your ticket, for example, 15-30 minutes before departure. However, always double-check the information, because for longer trips, for example from Prague to Como (Italy), you can return tickets no later than 2-3 days before departure.

◳ RegioJet (edited 13.9.23 13:09:04) (png) → (originál)

More information you can find on their page: https://regiojet.com/

App: Regiojet

Another one - České Dráhy is the major railway operator in the Czech Republic providing regional and long-distance services. Also have incredible discount for students. Great prices and timetable for those who want to explore the surroundings of Prague and the whole Czech Republic.

◳ ČD (edited 13.9.23 13:17:51) (png) → (originál)

More information you can find on their page: https://www.cd.cz/en/default.htm

App: ČD Můj vlak

If you need to get somewhere outside of Prague and don't know what kind of transportation will be most convenient and how many transfers you will have? Then use - IDOS (public transport timetables and connections – Prague and regional)

More information you can find on their page: https://idos.idnes.cz/en/vlakyautobusymhdvse/spojeni/?format=html

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All about beer

If there is something we are best at, it is drinking beer. With almost 150 litres of beer per capita per year we are the unrivaled leaders. And how couldn’t we be? We are real beer experts and have had a proud brewing history since 993. Plus beer is even cheaper than water or soft drinks in pubs.

DRINK LOCAL BEER

Walking with a Heineken on the street is an instant social suicide. Pilsner will hardly harm your reputation, but lately we rather go for the small breweries. Never heard of Matuška or Moucha? That’s because we keep our best treasures secret.

DRINKING ETIQUETTE

With beer or wine, always clink glasses before your first sip.
When drinking beer, tap the table after clinking glasses.
Always look directly in the eyes of a person you’re clinking with. ( or 7 years of bad sex
await you if you don’t)

After all, a common way of socializing is to go to a local pub (hospoda) to have one beer (“na jedno”). Needless to say, it never ends with just one. It is not unusual to drink several glasses during a night out. Beer is simply part of our culture and a natural part of most local social activities.

Tip 1: Expect to get served 0.5 litres of a beer when ordering one.

Tip 2: Don‘t pour beer from one glass to another. Spoiling the beverage that we treasure so much might attract many judgmental looks from any Czech in your surroundings.

More information about places where you can have a good time with friends drinking beer: https://www.justapack.com/best-beer-in-prague/

Lunch tips

So that is beer, but what if you are hungry? Most traditional meals are meat-based, with thick, often creamy sauces served with carb-dense sides such as dumplings or potatoes. A typical Czech restaurant would serve a good selection of them, but you can also try many of these for affordable prices in the Dejvice campus canteens. Look for svíčková, znojemská, koprovka, rajská or vepřo-knedlo-zelo and moravský vrabec. You can also find places where they keep up with the trends and offer a lighter version of the traditional meals or even vegan ones!

We usually eat lunch between 11:00–14:00 when restaurants offer a cheaper daily menu on week-days.

This is a list of popular lunch spots of the Czech Middle Class:

Na Urale (Uralská 9)
U Houbaře (Dukelských hrdinů 30)
Planeta Žižkov (Tachovské náměstí 1)
U Parlamentu (Valentinská 8)
*Natureza (Hellichova 14) - veg(eteri)an
*Herbivore (Rašínovo nábřeží 34) - veg(eteri)an
*Blatouch (Americká 17) - veg(eteri)an
*Moment (Slezská 62) - veg(eteri)an

Which one places we ALSO can recommended:

Dhaba Beas is a chain of vegetarian and vegan self-service restaurants based mainly on traditional Indian, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.

◳ Dhaba_Beas (edited 13.9.23 11:09:38) (png) → (originál)

Cukrárna Alchymista (Alchymista). Confectionery and café with garden. Selected coffee from the family roastery, cakes from our own production, original drinks. Drinks cost from 2.5 to 5 euros. Cakes are about 5-6 euros per slice

◳ Alchymistaa (edited 13.9.23 11:36:32) (edited 13.9.23 11:36:51) (png) → (originál)

Crème de la crème. Ice-cream shops with a large selection of ice cream: from classic to sorbets, vegan and sugar-free ice cream. You can find one of the shops not so far from the university - Pod kaštany 236/2, 160 00 Praha 6-Dejvice.

◳ ice-cream (jpg) → (originál)

Knedlín. This is a place where you can taste traditional Czech cuisine. Knedlík - boiled dumplings inside can be sweet or salty filling. Where is this located - Národní 115/24, 110 00 Nové Město. One dumpling will cost from 2.7 to 3.5 euros.

Are you not up for a whole meal? Unsurprisingly, a nation that is famous for its beer has plenty of tasty pub snacks. Often called “něco k pivu” (something with beer) is a must-try.

Tip 1: Czech waiters are typically a bit gloomy and might not speak English. Please don’t take it personally and try to use that before-mentioned vocabulary.

Tip 2: It is common to tip waiters for their service (around 10–15 % of the total price), which is almost never included in the bill. Usually, you do not leave the money on the table but add it to the bill directly when paying.

Tip 3: Eating dumplings with a hand is a big no-no.

3rd WAVE OF COFFEE CULTURE

We have experienced 40 years of communism with the Czech- -style “Turkish coffee”, pouring boiling water over ground coffee, waiting for it to settle before drinking it and using our teeth to filter the dregs. For the 15 years after the revolution, the only right cup of coffee has been the bitter one from Italy. And then, finally, the 3rd wave coffee has flooded Prague. The wave of specialty coffee where many cafés even roast their own coffee beans or have them imported from Berlin or Scandinavia.
Warning! Hipster vibe all over the place.

Osada (Osadní 35)
Kafemat (Dejvická 3)
Kavárna Nový Svět (Nový Svět 2)
EMA espresso bar (Na Florenci 3)
Republica Coffee (Martinská 4)
Káva Růžová - espresso bar (Růžová 7)
Café Lounge (Plaská 8)
Kavárna, co hledá jméno (Stroupežnického 10)
Kavárna Čekárna (Vratislavova 8)
Tvoje máma (Holandská 52)

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Living expenses

Living expenses vary depending on lifestyle. Therefore, what you see below is for general reference to give you an idea of how much a month in Prague can cost you. Generally, you should prepare from 10 000 to 17 000 CZK.

Accommodation	University Dormitory	3500–5000 CZK/month
Accommodation	Shared flat	7000 CZK/month
Food	Lunch in the campus canteen	80–130 CZK/meal
	Lunch in the restaurant	150–200 CZK/meal
	Shopping and cooking at home	5000 CZK/month
Mobile phone	T-Mobile	480 CZK/month
	Vodafone CZ	487 CZK/month
	Telefónica O2	500 CZK/month
Internet		300 CZK/month
Transportation	Metro, bus, tram	30 CZK/30 min
Transportation	Long-term coupon	130 CZK/month
Culture	Cinema ticket	200–500 CZK
Culture	Theatre ticket	200–500 CZK
Sport	Group class (yoga etc.)	150 CZK
Sport	Indoor pool	100 CZK/hour

Tip 1: Check numbeo.com to compare the living cost of your hometown with Prague.

Tip 2: If you shop online, you have the right to return your purchase within 14 days period. Nevertheless, always check the conditions of the shop before acquisition.

Currency

The currency we use in the Czech Republic is called crown CZK (“koruna” in Czech). Unfortunately, you cannot pay in Euros just yet!

The exchange rate is approximately as follows:

1 US dollar ≈ 21 CZK or 1 EUR ≈ 25 CZK

YOU CAN CHECK FOR THE ACTUAL CURRENT EXCHANGE RATE AT THE CZECH NATIONAL BANK WEBSITE: WWW.CNB.CZ/EN

Before coming to Prague, we suggest you bring some crowns with you, but not too much for safety reasons. As there are foreign exchange corners in airports or the city, you can exchange more crowns right after you arrive.

Tip 1: Download one of the mobile apps for easy currency conversion (Revolut or Splitwise).

Tip 2: Try to avoid exchange rate offices in the city center or on the airport. Even if a place says 0 % commission, it does not mean they will have fair rates! Check the exchange offices episodes on the YouTube ‘Honest Guide’ channel to find out more.

But we can also recommend one exchange rate offices, which located on Jindřišská 12, 110 00 Nové Město - Capital Exchange s.r.o. In many cases, it has the best rate.

Remember, the new las says you have 3 hours to get your money back in exchange offices!!!

◳ Capital_Exchange (png) → (originál)

Banks & ATMs

Most stores here accept bank cards – both MasterCard and Visa.

If you stay in the Czech Republic for a longer time, we recommend you set up an account in a Czech bank to save on the exchange rates.

The Czech Republic has plenty of banks with English-speaking staff, making it easy to open a bank account in the country. Some of the most popular local retail banks are Česká spořitelna, Citibank and ČSOB (Československá Obchodní Banka) .

The Czech Republic banks also have plenty of international partners, such as:

HSBC
Unicredit Bank
Sberbank
Raiffeisenbank

Banks within walking distance from the main UCT campus in Dejvice:


Komerční banka Dejvická 189/5 https://www.kb.cz/en/individuals	ČSOB Dejvická 36/40 https://www.csob.cz/portal/people	UniCredit Bank Vítězné nám. 829/10 https://www.unicreditbank.cz/en/obcane.html#home

Raiffeisenbank, Inc Dejvická 11 https://www.rb.cz/en		Česká spořitelna Vítězné nám. 817/9 https://www.csas.cz/en/about-us/who-we-are

Opening a student bank account in Czech Republic have a some advantages. First of all, don't forget to bring your ISIC (International Student Card given by your Czech University) for registration.

Cards: Free for students
Incoming Payment: Free
Pay by credit card: Free
Account management and internet banking for free

◳ ATM (jpg) → (ořez 215*215px)

Tip 1: Do not use ATMs only marked with the “ATM” sign. Try to find bank-branded ones (there are plenty). If you do so anyway, always decline the dynamic conversion.

Tip 2: To set up an account in a Czech bank, always bring your passport and another identity document (national ID, driving license, etc.).

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European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

An EHIC card is a proof that you are insured in an EU country, including Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

In the Czech Republic, the EHIC card is issued automatically with your national health card by your Public health insurance provider. If you are an EU citizen, you receive a blue EHIC card valid in all EU countries including Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

The EHIC card is a free card that gives you access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in another EU country under the same conditions and at the same cost as people insured in that country. However, while travelling, we recommend you to take an extra travel insurance, as the EHIC card covers only necessary care.

What to remember

is NOT an alternative to travel insurance. It does not cover any private healthcare or costs such as a return flight to your home country or lost/stolen property,
does not cover your costs if you are travelling for the express purpose of obtaining medical treatment
does not guarantee free services. As each country’s healthcare system is different services that cost nothing at home might not be free in another country.
The right can be claimed only by doctors and a health facilities that are connected to the national system. This right cannot be claimed by private doctors.

MEDICALLY NECESSARY HEALTHCARE

Citizens of EU countries & holders of EHIC should register their card with a Czech health insurance provider after their arrival. We recommend VZP as the largest health care provider in the Czech Republic with the highest number of cooperating doctors (meaning that the medically necessary expenses of your medical treatment should be covered without any issue).

Registering your EHIC in the Czech Republic will make it easier for the insurance company to bill your medical expenses to the health insurance company in your home country. You will also be assigned a “health insurance number” which will make it easier for doctors to look up your medical files.

You will receive an insurance card stating “Lékařsky nezbytná péče” = medical necessary healthcare:

Note that treatments exceeding the necessary medical health care will be billed separately and may be very expensive!

Students from Turkey need to take to the VZP office the paper they have from their Health insurance provider in Turkey and register it as well.

Then when visiting a doctor, take both your EHIC and the yellow insurance card with you.

Do not forget to bring your passport with you when visiting the branch of VZP.

FULL HEALTHCARE

It is also possible to register for full healthcare. In such a case you have to visit a branch of your health insurance company in your home country and fill in the so-called S1 Form. In some countries, your health insurance company will do the process online and send the form automatically to the Czech Republic, in some other countries, you will be given a hard copy of the form to submit it in person in the Czech Republic.

Once you arrive in the Czech Republic, visit a branch of the VZP health insurance company. You will be assigned a “health insurance number”, and you will receive an insurance card stating that you are entitled to “Plná péče” = full health care.

Registration of EHIC Card

We recommend making an online registration with VZP.

Send an email to: info@vzp.cz and attached these following documents:

the copy of your EHIC (students from Turkey send a copy of the paper they have from their Health insurance provider in Turkey).
Copy of your passport or ID card.
Filled in the registration form.

More information

VZP - Insurance cards

VZP - Branches

VZP - English website

Medical care

If you are a foreigner living in Prague (or closeby), it is good to know where to go when you are not feeling well. The majority of Prague’s large hospitals have an emergency department where the emergency services mainly focus on providing diagnostic and medical care not only to Czech citizens but to foreign citizens as well.

Practical information

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, call the emergency medical services at 112 or 155.

Health center Puls

Nearby UCT Prague dormitories. Ask your buddy to accompany you since they do not speak English there. Bring your health insurance card/confirmation and money with you.

Tel.: 267 189 156 - check the opening hours here.

University Hospital Motol - Department for foreigners

The department of the hospital will arrange a visit with a doctor, take care of all the administrative details regarding payment, and assist with language or other issues.

Info details

Adress: V Úvalu 84, Prague 5, tel. +420 224 438 590

Website: https://www.fnmotol.cz/

Opening hours: Mo - Fr 6:30 - 19:00; weekends and holidays nonstop

Tel.: +420 224 433 681, +420 224 433 692 (Health Care Services for Foreigners)

You can find other tips for hospitals that could help you here and here.

Private General Medical Practice at Dejvická

Available on Czech public health insurance and to holders of European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) as well as for patients who are not covered by these public health insurance options.

Info details

Contact person: MUDr. Youngová & spol., s.r.o.

Address: Vítězné náměstí 829/10,160 00 Prague 6

Tel.: +420 222 366 166

E-mail:  gp@young.co.cz

Psychological care

Students should focus on positive mental health that would help them to thrive and reach their optimal potential at work, study, and in life. At times, students might experience difficulties that may cause disruption and confusion in their lives. Studying usually involves a significant commitment of time and effort and requires a disciplined routine in order to achieve academic success. That itself can place significant stress on mental health. It is important that, in times of high stress, students have strategies in place to protect their mental health.

112 – Emergency Telephone Number

Counselling and Career Centre UCT Prague

UCT Prague offers psychological counselling. Psychological counselling is a safe place for anyone who needs free mental health help. If you are worried about problems that make it difficult for you to study, don't be afraid to contact Counselling and Career Centre UCT Prague and find a suitable solution together with the psychologist. Whether you are in a crisis situation, dealing with long-term family or personal problems or troubled by interpersonal relationships, Counselling and Career Centre UCT Prague find the right help for you.

For more information, visit Counselling and Career Centre UCT Prague webpage here.

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Upon arrival, students from EU and non-EU countries are obliged to register after arrival with the Foreign Police, if it has not been done by the accommodation provider.

Reporting duty

Registering at the Foreign police is obligatory for anyone who is staying in the Czech Republic for more than 30 days.

Non-EU citizens are supposed to register within 3 days within arrival.
EU citizens on the other hand have 30 days for the registration.

Students from both non-EU countries and EU countries are obliged to report changes concerning their stay in the Czech Republic, such as a change in address, a change in their travel document or family status. Changes must always be announced within 30 days.

The Foreign Police is responsible for:

checking on the legitimacy of stays in the Czech Republic
dealing with you reporting of your place of residence in the Czech Republic within the given statutory period
extending stays in the Czech Republic - only for holder of a short-term visa
verifing an invitation
issuing of short-term residence certificates or certificates certifying a legitimate right of residence in the Czech Republic (e. g. for marriage)

If you do not adhere to this obligation, you could be fined up to 3 000 CZK.

EU and Non-EU students Living in Residence Halls

Registration of your stay in the Czech Republic at the Czech Foreign Police is not necessary if you are staying in the Volha or Sázava residence halls; the residence halls will register on your behalf.

Students from both non-EU countries and EU countries are obliged to report changes by themselves concerning their stay in the Czech Republic, such as a change in address, a change in their travel document or family status.

Students in Private Residences

If you are an EU student and will not live in Volha or Sázava, you are obliged to register at the Foreign Police office within 30 days of your arrival if your stay in the Czech Republic exceeds 30 days.

All non-EU students who do not live in Volha or Sázava must register at the Czech Foreign Police within 3 days after their arrival. This duty also applies to those visa students who are due to pick up their long-term or permanent residence permits in the Czech Republic.

Make sure to ask your accommodation provider first, If he/she registered you before you will go to the Foreign Police. An accommodation provider is considered to be anyone that provides accommodation in return for financial compensation or that provides accommodation to more than 5 foreigners, except for the case where the relationship between the accommodated foreigner and the accommodation provider can be regarded as being close.

For the purposes of the Aliens Act, an accommodation is understood to be a contractual relationship based on a contract for accommodation, rental contract, sub-rental contract or any other contract with similar contents.

Useful links

Address: Olšanská 2176/2, Praha 3, 130 00 (nearby Flora metro station)

Tel.: +420 974 820 317 (speaking Czech only)

E-mail: krpa.ocp.opa.podatelna@pcr.cz

Opening hours: Mon and Wed: 8:00 – 17:00 ; Tue and Thu: 8:00 – 15:00

How and Where you should register?

All EU and non-EU citizens who are here on a visa need to register at the Foreign Police.

Contact details

Immigration - info for schools

Policie.cz - Reporting of the place of aliens' residence

EU Nationals - reporting duty

Thirds Countries Nationals - reporting duty

It is a good idea to get there early to avoid long lines.

Registration must be completed in person.

When you get to the station, you will need to get a number and fill out a form that you can get at the information desk. Although they will likely not speak much English, you can request an English registration form. Try to ask your Buddy or Czech speaking friend if he/she is willing to accompany you.

Documents required for the registration:

Passport or ID card
Proof of health insurance
Proof of accommodation

There is a 3,000 CZK fine (penalty) for not registering on time - you can read more about the exact rules on the Czech Police website in English.

What do you need to be aware of?

The police are allowed to stop you on the street and ask to see your passport and check your registration under various circumstances: if they suspect that you are undocumented, if you are in the proximity of a governmental buildings, travel terminals or other areas of importance. It is also common for police to check your documents late at night especially near popular bars.

If you are stopped without your passport, the police will either take you to the station or will escort you home and check your documents there.

You can get an extra fine of up to 2,000 CZK for not having a passport or ID card on you at all times – this law is applicable almost everywhere in the EU.

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Prague has an extensive public transport network that is rated as one of the best and most reliable in Europe. Thanks to public transport, you can reach even the most remote corners of the metropolis quickly and easily.

Transportation in Prague

You can use the underground (metro), trams, buses or suburban trains, ie.e public transport (MHD) to
travel around Prague. All traffic information, latest news, schedules and travel rules are on the
website of the Prague Public Transit (Dopravní podnik hlavního města Prahy – DPP).

When you travel by any means of transport, you are required to have a valid and properly marked ticket. The ticket is invalid if not marked.
If you travel around Prague regularly and often, it is worth it to buy a travel pass with long-term validity (the so-called Litacka, or a paper coupon).

Lítačka

◳ Litacka (jpg) → (šířka 450px)

The Litacka Prague travel card is designed to be used by adults for periods of between one month and one year.

There are two ways how to obtain the travel card:

1) Go to Škoda Palace Jungmannova 35/29, 110 00 Prague 1 („Můstek“ metro station) with a passport-sized photo.

2) Go to: https://karta.litacka.cz/new-application (or donwload the app) then fill in the basic information and add a valid photo.

Create a PID Litacka Account

If you have not registered before, go to https://www.pidlitacka.cz/registration select the EN option and complete the steps.

Click on the Activation link that will return you to PID Litacka website, where you shall:

Add a Travel Voucher
On the left menu select “Season Tickets”
Select your Tariff
Select the date that you want the voucher to start
Choose Payment Type
Enter your payment card details and then click on the orange “Pay xxx” button
Validating the voucher

Do not forget to add your ISIC number, so you can get the student discount.

Now you can take metro, tram and bus for free when you want in Prague.

Public transport in Prague consists of:

Metro

Line A (green): Depo Hostivař - Nemocnice Motol
Line B (yellow): Černý Most - Zličín
Line C (red): Letňany - Háje

Transfer nodes are located at the Můstek (A, B), Muzeum (A, C) and Florenc (B, C) stations.

Intervals: at peak hours ranges from 2 to 4 minutes, during non-peak hours, it is never more than 10 minutes; at night from Friday to Saturday and from Saturday to Sunday, the interval is 20 minutes.

Trams

Trams are a reliable and convenient option for surface transport. For sightseeing tours we recommend using the “nostalgic line” 42

Important notice: At pedestrian crossings, trams always have the right of way over pedestrians!

Intervals: peak hours every 8–10 minutes, off-peak every 10–20 minutes, night connections every 30 minutes.

Buses

Getting on and off the bus is possible through all the doors of the bus.

Intervals: peak hours every 6-8 minutes, off-peak hours every 15-30 minutes; night operation every 30-60 minutes.

Night Service

Night service (from about 0:30 to 4:30) replaces daily metro, tram and bus lines. The backbone of night service is nine tram lines (91-99) at a uniform interval of 30 minutes (20 minutes at night from Friday to Saturday and from Saturday to Sunday) and night city bus lines (901–915) run at intervals of 30 minutes (20 minutes at night from Friday to Saturday and from Saturday to Sunday) or 60 minutes and at selected transfer points they connect to trams or other bus lines.

You can reach Václav Havel Prague Airport from the city center at night by night bus 910 without transfer. The line runs every 30 minutes. The driving time from the I.P. Pavlova stop, for example, is 42 minutes.

Other forms of transportation:

Ferries
Funicular to Petřín
In the outskirts of Prague,suburban transport is the most convenient way to get around.

For more information regarding barrier-free travel on public transport, click here.

FARES

Passengers should familiarise themselves with the conditions of travel in Prague's public transport system prior to arrival. This will help prevent possible complications during transport control.

Ticket validity is based on only on time - the number of transfers does not matter. When transferring, do not stamp the ticket again - restamping invalidates the ticket!

90-minute ticket - CZK 40
30-minute ticket - CZK 30
24-hour ticket - CZK 120
72-hour ticket - CZK 330

Free and discounted transport in public transport in Prague:

Free transport or a discount on the fare is conditional on proof of age with an official document stating the name, surname, photograph and date of birth (passport, ID card).

children up to 15 years: gratis
persons over age 65: gratis
persons aged from 60 to 65 years: half-fare (90-minute ticket - CZK 20, 30-minute ticket - CZK 15, 24-hour ticket - CZK 60)
passengers with a valid travel document can transport a dog free of charge within Prague (except for PID trains and the AE line). A dog without a crate can be transported if it has a muzzle and is kept on a short leash.
small luggage up to 25x45x70 cm, animals in a crate, pram with baby or bicycles (only in the metro, on ferries, on the cable car to Petřín and at specified time intervals in selected tram sections)
more detailed information can be found here.

How to purchase tickets:

ticket vending machines: Ticket vending machines are installed in all metro stations and at some surface transport stops. Most vending machines only accept Czech coins, but increasingly, ticket machines allow you to pay using a contactless payment card.
Information centers or points of sale in metro stations
contactless payment cards: the payment terminal is located in the middle of each tram. After purchasing a ticket (printed on the spot), it is not necessary to stamp the ticket. In buses, it is possible to pay contactlessly only on the lines to Václav Havel Airport (119 and Airport Express). It is not yet possible to pay by card directly on metro trains.

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INTERNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS

FOREIGN UNIVERSITIES WITH COOPERATION ON STUDY ACCREDITATION

INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC-RESEARCH PROJECTS AND CONFERENCES

MEMBERSHIP IN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Membership in international networks and associations

PRIDE Network

EUA-CDE

Interesting internationalization data

Vice-rector for External Relationship and Communication

Head of the Department

Staff Business Travel

International (degree-seeking) Student Admission Manager

Student Exchange Mobility Coordinators

Foreign Student's Integration Specialist

International Staff Mobility Coordinators